Reducing image distortions due to temperature-related microscope stage drift.

Distortions in confocal 3D image data sets were related to movements of the microscope stage that matched fluctuations in laboratory temperature. Movement was apparent in all three axes. Adding a draught-proof enclosure, covering the stage, objective lenses and supporting structures, minimized these short-term fluctuations. However, the stage still tracked slow changes in laboratory temperature and was sensitive to heat sources mounted on the microscope. Suggestions are made about microscope design.